12 replies to this topic

[jonno356SC]

Greetings all,

Thinking about learning how to mill my own metal parts. I have been reading a little, looking at some videos, and checking out the Sherline site.

I think some of you folks mill your own stuff. And I am wondering what's the best way to get started? I am not an engineer, I am a advertising writer. So the CNC stuff looks pretty daunting to me. BUT I am dying to make my own velocity stacks, engine blocks etc. I think it's something I can learn to do.

There is a great shop near my work that has a very nice Sherline package of both a milling machine and lathe, with all the necessary attachments. Pretty pricy @ 2900. Thoughts?

Thanks for your help!

[jonno356SC]

Thanks very much!!

[Chas SCR]

For doing CNC stuff get a new computer and just use that for the machines. The progame is very hard on the motherboard and also your video cards, I have the Jet Lathe and also the Mill and will not think of going smaller then what I have as I do other stuff in 1/8th scale also for use on mine. For justifying using the CNC its really not needed as I do not use it for mulitpul parts and such. It is easy'er to help figur out stuff using the NC part of it in the program then any thing and also get a machines handbook as they have all the formulas for the mathe you will need.
invest in some good diamond bit tooling and also the replacement tips for your lathe is very nice. You can get some soft aluminum from K&S and special order from them some 6160 aluminum or even go to Alro Steel if you have on near you.

[Edward Gore]

Great idea getting a lathe and mill.

I have a combo 7" X 18" lathe/mill in my garage. It's not a Sherline so I can't comment on that.

I took a couple classes at my local city college for free (no credit) because they were sponsored by the local unions. Very informative.

I don't machine parts for every model I build but it's helpful for some parts

[jonno356SC]

Great info!

Any thoughts on this machine and the asking?

http://toronto.en.cr...3261014495.html

[Chief Joseph]

Great info!

Any thoughts on this machine and the asking?

http://toronto.en.cr...3261014495.html

I'd say that's a little high for that model Sherline mill, but I suppose it's Canadian dollars so I guess it's not too far out of line. I question why the seller didn't take better photos of the mill, though. I would go with factory-new tools because then you won't have any nasty surprises. I have a Taig lathe and love it. Sherline makes great tools and you will pay for the quality. CNC is cool, but it adds a tremendous amount of money and complication to the setup. I'd suggest you get the manual machines (possibly with CNC motor mounts) and learn how they work before taking the next step up to CNC. You'll probably find you can do most everything manually.

[jonno356SC]

Thanks. I'll hold out for new.

[Art Anderson]

I have a Sherline lathe that I bought new in the spring of 1981, still use it, but need to do some upgrades to it (one thing about Sherline, whatever they upgrade, they make fit all their older products!). I've turned a couple hundred parts on this one over the years, with great results.

In 2009, I took the plunge, bought a Sherline Mill, and I have to say, it's one FINE piece of machinery.

If one is going to make the investment in machine tools such as these for modeling, make it a "one time buy", and go for the best you can both afford and give house-room to. You won't be disappointed.

Art

[sportandmiah]

I have the Sherline lathe and mill. They are without a doubt the nicest pieces of miniature machinery you can buy. Although expensive, the quality is absolute precision. Your next option is Taig which is not nearly as expensive and is quality equipment. I've never heard anything bad about Taig, and most Taig and Sheline accessories are interchangeable. Taig accessories are less expensive also. Either option is perfect for model hobby projects. I also have a Harbor Freight smaller Milling machine....bad quality...i would steer clear. Lastly, there is Micromark. It is the same makes and models as the Asian made Harbor Freights but they fine tune their models and appear be a little better quality than HF.

I say if u have the money, go with Sheline. Top notch stuff.

[Futurabat]

Normally I am pro Harbor Frieght. In this case though i'll agree with Doug. If you're looking for accesories and such for your dremel, or a set of dental picks, files and such Harbor frieght can't be beat for price and availability, but when it comes to precision machinery you couldn't give me one of thier machines. If you truly want to get into milling get a quality setup to begin with and it will last you most likely throughout your hobbying lifetime.

[sportandmiah]

And here's a link to learn everything you might want to know. http://bbs.homeshopm...t.net/forum.php

[Chas SCR]

For all tooling needs to fit the Harbor Fraight stuff or even going to like Jet machines like I have (they use the same small tooling) You can get any thing and every thing you need to fit this stuff and more at Blue Ridge Machine out of WV. The tooling will also fit Econo lathe.

[MicroNitro]

I have five CNC Sherlines they are good machines not the best money can buy but the best I can afford. The leadscrews they come with are not the greatest but there are good ones you can get for them. I rebuild every machine about every 150 hours or 4 weeks. You will have to learn how to run a manual mill and lathe before going to CNC or you will not know what to tell the machine to do. I would get some books and go on some websites before you buy anything. Have a good time machining can be a lot of fun.

Edited by MicroNitro, 30 September 2012 - 04:16 PM.